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SPORTS BIZ "Nobody Beats Sports Biz" FORMER CADDY GOT THE TIGER BY THE TAIL August 8, 2011 (New York) Tiger Woods' former caddy, Stevie Williams, was unceremoniously booted off of "Team
Tiger" after 12 years of service. After yesterday's results at the WGC Bridgestone, the score is Williams 1
and Woods 0.
At the World Golf Championship, (held in Lebron country, Akron, Ohio), Adam Scott won with an outstanding
score of -17 and Tiger finished with +1. That's an 18 shot discrepancy. Tiger received $58,500 for his troubles.
The Aussie, Scott, added a cool $1.4 million. So the money discrepancy was as lopsided as the score discrepancy.
The caddy share of the winnings is generally 10%. Do the math: Stevie Williams, the caddy, made more than Tiger,
the golfer. Much more.
If Stevie stuck (or was stuck) with Tiger, he'd be $81,500 poorer.
Instead, he stuck with Adam Scott, and he's $81,500 richer. The "Caddy" made more than the "Golfer."
What will be Tiger's Tail/Tale heading into the PGA this weekend? Tiger vs. Stevie is better, right
now, than Tiger vs. Mickelson. The television ratings for the PGA just got bigger and broadcast partners TNT and
CBS couldn't be happier.
RICKY WILLIAMS SIGNS WITH RAVENS August 8, 2011
(New York) Ricky Williams has finally found a new nest. The somewhat "eccentric" running back has landed with
the Baltimore Ravens for "birdseed" money.
The former all-pro signed a two-year deal with a guaranteed
$2.5 million that could reach $4 million if he meets benchmarks specified in the contract.
This
is a disturbing pattern for the players. It seems that salaries have been severely depressed, especially for running
backs and receivers. How could the CBA he good for players if their salaries have gone in a southernly direction?
The Eagles standout receiver DeSean Jackson "stands" to make $550,000 this year unless he is able to re-work
his deal. Braylon Edwards signed for guaranteed $1 million for one year. Imminent Hall-of-Famer, Randy Moss, opted
to retire rather than accept salaries that are significantly lower.
Seems like there has been a power shift.
The shift went from "Power to the Players" to "Power to the Owners." And to a greater degree, "Power
to the NFL."
FOOTBALL BATS BASEBALL August 8, 2011 (New York) Best thing
to happen to pro football: The Lockout. Worst thing to happen to pro baseball: The Lockout.
This is
the second consecutive summer where baseball took a backseat. Last year, the "Lebron Watch" and "The
Decision" dominated the sports headlines throughout the summer. This year, "The Lockout" was all the
rage. Baseball season starts in earnest on August 1. But once again, baseball is the "backstory."
Nothing illustrates this point more than last night's matchup between the Yankees and Red Sox. With both
teams tied for first place, this is arguably the best rivalry in baseball. However, much of the sizzle is gone.
This is the point in the season where baseball interest starts to pick up. When September comes, that is the start of
the playoff push. But, if August baseball is not captivating the interest it usually does, that says interest in September
will diminish. And that will affect playoff and World Series interest.
Baseball needs to get back on the
ball or risk getting "batted" by football.
LI NA $UPA$TA (SUPERSTAR)
June 24, 2011 (New York) Even though she bowed out of Wimbledon
early in a match she should have won, Li Na The Superstar is poised to become one of the highest paid endorsers in the world.
Li Na made history by being the first Chinese woman to reach the finals of a tennis Grand Slam event (Austrailian
Open) and the first Chinese woman to win a Grand Slam event (French Open). According to some reports, over 116 million
people in China watched her finals match at the French Open.
Recently, Li Na signed a three-year, $5.8 million
deal with Mercedes and is commanding $200,000 for "short" appearance fees. The Mercedes deal is probably not
the best fit. If she was going to sign with a German auto manufacturer, it should have been Volkswagen. Why? Less
expensive. Still don't get it? The average worker income is less likely to have Mercedes purchasing power,
but does have Volkswagen purchasing power. China has over 1 billion strong. As imminent NFL Hall of Famer
Cris Carter would say, "Come on man!"
For Li Na to be mentioned in the same breath as some of the top
endorsers, (Tiger Woods, Phil Mickleson, David Beckham, Lebron James, and Maria Sharapova) she doesn't have to win Majors,
but she needs to play into the second week of the tournament. If she can do this on a consistent basis, her endorsement
earnings could top $50 million annually.
The Sports Business Journal reports that Li Na's IMG agent, Max Eisenbud,
claimed the 29-year old Na could sign as many as 25 new deals. Do the math if each deal gives her $2 million annually.
And that would be way too low. How big is China? Excuse me. And she is worshipped over there. Hello!
Li Na The $upa$ta!
DEREK JETER HITS PAY DIRT
June 24, 2011 (New York) Last month, the Sports Business
Consortium reported that marketing efforts commemorating Derek Jeter's 3,000th hit would intensify as he reached that
historic mark. Jeter would probably have eclipsed one of baseball's most prized feats (reaching 3,000 hits) if he
did not wind up on the 15-day disabled list.
According to Harold Friend of the Bleacher Report, "Regardless
of the park, five gallons of dirt from the batter's box and shortstop area will be collected. Tablespoons of the hallowed
dirt will be placed into capsules which can be attached to key chains, used as part of framed photographs of the hit, or glued
to Jeter bats."
Harold Friend also reports that, "The marketing of Jeter's 3,000 has
its own campaign named "DJ3K." T-shirts, caps, jerseys, bobble heads, decals, cellphone skins, wall murals,
patches, bats, balls, license plates and necklaces will be available for purchase."
Jeter gets
a percentage of that money so even if he feels somewhat slighted over his current contract, the financial windfall from his
3,000th hit will make up for it. He will literally hit "pay dirt."
BLAKE GRIFFIN BECOMES
KIA SPOKESPERSON
June 24, 2011 (New York) In their infinite wisdom, or should I say "wis-dumb" Kia Motors finally
decided to make Blake Griffin an official spokesperson.
If memory serves me correctly, "Blake be nimble, Blake
be quick, Blake jumped over the Kia real slick." This was back in February during the N.B.A. All-Star weekend.
What took so long for Kia to make the deal? Kia couldn't see the synergy between their brand and Blake--the next
N.B.A. marketing marquee?
If Blake's people are half-way smart, the price of the deal went up with each passing
month. It's like "buying an umbrella in the rain" as we used to say. The umbrella sold by the street
vendor is $4 on a sunny day and $5 when it's raining.
Kia should have launched a new ad during the N.B.A. Finals
that would have run the entire summer. Blake has "off-season" appeal meaning some endorsers are still appealing
even when the season ends.
Hopefully Kia's ads with Blake produce a Slam Dunk.
ICE, ICE BABY! "RULER ON
ICE" WINS BELMONT
June 11, 2011 (New York) At 24-1, underdog
(or should I say "underhorse") "Ruler on Ice" had the proverbial "snowball's chance in hell"
when it came to winning the Belmont. Well, nobody told Lucifer because "Ruler on Ice" won the Belmont.
The Belmont Stakes is the third leg of the Triple Crown. Favorites, Shackleford (Preakness winner) and
Animal Kingdom (Kentucky Derby winner), finished fifth and sixth respectively. The winner's purse was a cool $600,000.
Not bad when you consider "Ruler on Ice" was bought for $100,000 and will go on to "stud heaven" and earn
millions.
Ice Ice Baby!
MAYWEATHER TO FIGHT ORTIZ IN SEPT.
June 7, 2011 Floyd Mayweather and Victor Ortiz have agreed to fight in principle on Sept. 17.
The terms of the bout have not been disclosed but the site will probably be Las Vegas.
Floyd Mayweather last fought in May 2010, easily outpointing Shane Mosley in a lopsided decision.
Why Mayweather continues to pass on a fight with Pacquiao remains mysterious. But for now, the tempermental fighter
returns to the ring to fight a younger, bigger, and possibly hungrier fighter in Victor Ortiz.
HBO will probably carry the fight, and the award-winning, HBO produced reality series, 24/7,
will feature Mayweather who was instrumental in its success.
Let the fall fireworks begin.
THE PEACOCK ROCKS: NBC BIDS IN EXCESS OF $4 BILLION FOR NEXT FOUR OLYMPICS
June 7, 2011 (New York) NBC has won the media rights for the 2014, 2016, 2018, and 2020 Olympics.
The sites for the last two (2018 & 2020) have not been determined.
Speculation is that NBC submitted a bid in excess of $4 billion, and it may have been as high as
$4.4 billion dollars. NBC was in a must-win situation. The bids submitted by ESPN and Fox have not been revealed
yet, but it is fair to say their respective bids were a few $100 million dollars short.
The Peacock rocks.
THE "FOX" IS IN THE COOP: OLYMPIC MEDIA RIGHTS BIDDING
June 7, 2011 (New York) It began yesterday. In earnest. The bidding.
In Switzerland. For Olympics media rights supremacy. The players: Fox, ESPN/ABC, and NBC/Versus. The winner???
Only the International Olympic Committee knows.
There are two bids; one for 2014 and 2016 in Sochi (Russia) and Rio De Janeiro (Brazil)
respectively; and the other for 2014, 2016, 2018 and 2020. The last two Olympics have no sites thus far. This
complicates matters severely because the locale of the Olympics determines time-zones, media infrastructure, tourist appeal,
transportation/traveling costs, etc. Throw in the sealed-bidding process, and you have all the drama needed for a suspense
thriller.
Fox presented yesterday and is seeking media rights for the next four games. Eight
years ago, Fox underbid by $700 million losing to NBC who bid $2 billion. Fox will be more formidable in its bidding
this go round. The network understands how gaining Olympics rights can elevate its other programming.
Fox became a major player when it secured NFL media rights at the expense of NBC.
NBC is a "wounded" animal that may be a dangerous bidder. Dick Ebersol's sudden departure puts NBC in a somewhat precarious
position. Don't be surprised to see an exhorbitant bid by the Peacock.
ESPN doesn't really need to win. It wants to conquer MLB and college basketball and
football first. ESPN really just wants to send a message to the other networks that it will be a major bidder in the
coming decade.
For now, someone let the Fox into the coop, and the Fox is hungry.
ON THE MARK: MARK JACKSON TO COACH WARRIORS
June 7, 2011 (New York) He's been using his "analyst" position as a pulpit to showcase
his knowledge, and now finally, Mark Jackson has been given the position he has coveted for the past few years: Head Coach.
Though Jackson has no prior coaching experience, he seems to possess the essential traits
for coaching success, (i.e., ability to relate to players, point-guard experience, stern demeanor with a pinch of levity,
and strong desire to win).
The inexperienced Jackson would be wise to hire a core of experienced assistants. Bernie
Bickerstaff comes to mind. So does Rudy Tomjanovich. And in a strange twist (I got this from Kyle Greene),
Cheryl Miller or Nancy Lieberman (with the advantage of being in liberal San Francisco).
Jackson eventually wants this coaching trail to lead back to his hometown, New York. But
for now, Jackson must make his "Mark" by creating a winning franchise in Golden State.
NBA & ABC ROOT FOR MAVS TONIGHT
June 7, 2011 (New York) Sorry Miami, but your league (NBA) and the network carrying your
games (ABC) don't want you to win--at least not tonight.
The chilling stat (that the Game 3 winner has gone on to win the series 11 out of 11 times)
may spell a ratings drop-off for this evening's game four of the NBA Finals.
Sunday's rating of 9.1 (15.338 million viewers) declined from last Thurday's rating of
9.3 (15.522 million viewers). However, game three's rating is the second highest ever (with 2004 game three between
the Lakers and Pistons being the highest ever with a 10.5 (16.213 million viewers).
If the Mavericks win tonight, the series is guaranteed to go at least six games, and speaks
to the series being competitive. If the Heat win, they go up 3-1 making game five a close-out game.
Many viewers might not tune in because they'll interpret a Mavericks' 3-1 deficit as being to difficult to overcome.
Let's just say the league and the network have a "rooting" interest. Go Mavs
Go!
HEAT COOL OFF MAVS
June 5, 2011 (New York) The Miami Heat beat the Dallas Mavericks 88-86 to take a 2-1 lead
in the best of seven series. Dwayne Wade led the Heat with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 3 assists.
The Heat won despite subpar performances by Lebron James and Chris Bosh. While both
players had their moments, Wade was the driving force. Lebron had 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 9 assists.
Dirk Nowitzki scored 34 points and added 11 rebounds and 1 assist. Game four is on
Tuesday, June 7.
NADAL BEATS FEDERER SO STRIKE UP THE BAND(WAGON)!
June 5, 2011 (New York) Rafael Nadal defeated Roger Federer 7-5, 7-6, 5-7, 6-1 to win his
sixth French Open title and retain his number one ranking. However, his greatest challenge doesn't reside on the other
side of the net.
Greater efforts must be made to market Nadal as a tennis ambassador and product pitchman.
He has won ten Grand Slams already, and if he retired tomorrow at age 25, he'd be voted into the tennis hall of fame.
It's time for advertisers to strike up the band and get on the Nadal bandwagon.
BAD NEWS FOR NBC: RATINGS DIP FOR NHL GAME 2
June 5, 2011 (New York) Nascar, two boxing matches, and late spring weather conspired to
bring down the ratings for the second game of the Stanley Cup Finals between the Boston Bruins and Vancouver Canucks.
The Canucks continued to hold serve and won in overtime 3-2.
Even though the game was a nailbiter, it only earned a 2.5 rating which was down a whopping
39% from last year's game 2 final between the Philadelphia Flyers and Chicago Blackhawks.
NBC just renewed its deal with the NHL for $187 million annually. The previous deal
was for $78 million. Advertisers looking at these numbers can't be willing to showcase their commercials for big money
next year.
NBC will have to effectively market the NHL to increase ratings otherwise the new deal
will be more bust than boom.
SHOWTIME & HBO BOTH WIN
June 5, 2011 (New York) HBO carried the Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. middleweight title fight.
Showtime carried the Carl Froch-Glen Johnson fight. And they didn't collide. When the victor, Froch, and his worthy
adversary, Johnson, were doing post-fight interviews, the Julio Cesar Chavez Jr.-Sebastian Zbic fight just started.
HBO wins because they are in line to carry an attractive fight between Chavez Jr. and Miguel
Cotto which would probably be a pay-per-view affair. Showtime wins because the Super Six finale will involve the two
most marketable fighters, Carl Froch and Andre Ward.
Both fights should take place in early fall--just hopefully not on the same evening.
YES-NA ANSWER: LI NA WINS FRENCH OPEN
June 4, 2011 (New York) Chinese national tennis star, Li Na, "answered" her critics
by capturing the women's French Open title. Li Na has the distinction of being the first Chinese player to win a tennis
Grand Slam event. Earlier today, the 29 year-old Li beat Francesa Schiavone 6-4, 7-6 (0) to become the 2011 women's
champion at the French Open.
Li became the first Chinese player to reach a Grand Slam final earlier this year losing
to Kim Clijsters in the Australian Open. There were some "pundits" who viewed her run as a "run of luck" and didn't
think she could duplicate it.
The next Grand Slam event is Wimbledon, and Li looks to be one of the favorites.
Her win is a tremendous source of pride for Chinese nationals (and really for all people, but that's another story).
Tennis already has a measure of popularity in China, but Li's victory will surely generate greater interest in the sport.
Just as Anna Kournikova's short-lived success created a stir that led to many Russian
women becoming top-25 players in tennis, don't be surprised if you see something similar happen for Chinese women who
may start to dominate the sport.
Equally interesting is how her win will translate into endorsement and other business opportunities.
She has reached national "She-ro" status in a country that has over 1 billion people. Clearly, there are abundant opportunities
to capitalize on her success.
Li's victory was not just victory for self, but a victory for China--and hopefully
a victory for her purse.
So, "Can Li win the big ones?" Yes! Na Answers.
WNBA SEASON BEGINS WITH PARKER-MOORE RIVALRY
June 4, 2011 (New York) Two former University of Connecticut all-time greats were matched
last night in the WNBA's first game of the season. Candice Parker, who was injured for almost the entire season last
year, led the Los Angeles Sparks to a victory over the Minnesota Lynx. She scored 19 points and pulled down 10 rebounds.
The game marked the 15th season of the WNBA and the debut of rookie sensation, Maya Moore, one of the greatest players in
college basketball history.
Moore scored 21 points, added four rebounds as well as four assists in the 82-74 loss.
Last month, Moore became the first female athlete to receive an endorsement deal with Nike's Air Jordan brand. (See
the Sports Business Consortium article, "Finally, Jordan Brand Signs Maya Moore" May 18, 2011 - http://www.audacity59.com/id3.html).
The rivalry between the two former University of Connecticut stars should create great
theater for the WNBA. The league has survived, but questions remain about its viability. The WNBA, which is part
of the NBA, is losing money. Not good. Especially because the NBA is losing money despite its present popularity.
The WNBA's challenge will be to market the rivarly. Credit the WNBA for pitting
Parker and Moore (and their respective teams) against each other. Hopefully, it will create the kind of buzz that renews
interest in the league.
SATURDAY "BOX-OFF": SHOWTIME VS. HBO
June 4, 2011 (New York) Talk about a boxing rivalry. The biggest rivalry in the sport
of boxing is not Mayweather-Pacquiao (and that's more of a hype-fest than rivalry); it's HBO and Showtime. Showtime
has always been the stepchild in this saga, but over the last few years, the cable network is aggressively trying to knock
HBO off its perch.
This evening, for the umpteenth time, the two networks are airing fights around the same
time. Showtime will feature a main event bout as part of the "Super Six" tournament between semi-finalists, Carl Froch
and the ageless Glen Johnson. The televised fight card begins at 9:00 p.m. (est) and is preceded by "Fight Camp 360's"
last installment of the Pacquiao-Mosely fight. Great lead-in.
On the HBO side of the ledger, Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. (son of legendary fighter Julio Cesar
Chavez) will fight for a title against middleweight champion Sebastian Zbick. The HBO card featuring the undefeated fighters is
set to air at 10 p.m. (est).
The more interesting fight will be that of the ratings. Both fights have interesting
storylines. The Showtime fight winner between Johnson and Froch will fight Andre Ward for Super Six supremacy.
The Super Six tournament has had its share of problems but the end is near as the other finalist will be crowned tonight.
The HBO fight pits two fighters who have been in the eyes of some "coddled." The stakes are high for both fighters because
of who their next opponents could be. For Chavez Jr., it could be a big payday against Miguel Cotto, and for Zbick it
could mean a showdown against one of the pound-for-pound bests, Sergio Martinez.
Depending on when the fights begin, viewers who have access to both networks will have
to choose. Let's see who will win the ratings war: Showtime or HBO.
OAKLEY WANTS HIS BACK, BACK
June 4, 2011 (New York) Former NBA power forward and "enforcer" Charles Oakley is suing
the Aria Hotel & Casino for damages resulting in an arrest. In May 2010, Oakley, who is a Charlotte
Bobcats assistant coach, was not allowed into a VIP reception area. An argument ensued, and he was removed by security
officers. Oakley claims the officers handled him forcibly which has resulted in a sciatic nerve condition.
Oakley is undergoing physical therepy but is considering resigning his post. If his
condition doesn't improve, he'll probably opt for surgery. Oakley said, "I'm back walking and hopefully getting my back,
back together and back to 100 percent."
For Oakley, hopefully the courts have his Back.
SHAQ "THE BIG AARP" RETIRES
June 3, 2011 (New York) First he used twitter, then he used his mansion. I'm talking
about Shaquille O'Neal who announced his retirement early this afternoon from his Orlando mansion.
O'Neal was witty, humble, and strategic as he paved the way for his post-NBA career.
Shaq's legacy must include his on-the-court exploits as well as his larger than life personality.
Hopefully Shaq won't get the itch and "un-retire." He is an all-time great who
was the most dominant center of his era. There is nothing for him to prove basketball wise. It would be great
to see him lend his talents to worthwhile causes, thus becoming known as Shaq-charity.
MIAMI HEAT & RATINGS "COOL OFF"
June 3, 2011 (New York) The Miami Heat's impressive victory in game one probably caused
the slight drop-off in the ratings for game two of the NBA Finals.
The Heat-Mavericks ratings for the second game were down by 4% from last year's game two
between the Lakers and Celtics. Last night's game garnered a 10.5 rating compared to last year's rating of 10.9
The loss by Miami sets up game three to be a ratings bonanza. The winner of game
three in the 2-3-2 format has won the Finals 11 out of 11 times.
Miami is rightfully taking a lot of "Heat" for their collapse in the final quarter where
they had a 15 point lead. There was too much celebration with much time left, and the Mavericks
came back with a vengeance.
The ratings may have "cooled" off for game two, but they will surely "heat" up for game
three.
NBC GETS WISH: NADAL & FEDERER IN FINALS
June 3, 2011 (New York) Even though there were a few anxious moments, Roger Federer and
Rafael Nadal held true to form and won their semi-final matches at the French Open.
The top-seeded Nadal, who turned 25 today, beat the fourth-seeded Andy Murray in straight
sets, 6-4, 7-5, 6-4. Federer had a tougher opponent in second-seeded Novak Djokovic who was on a 43 consecutive match
winning streak. Federer defeated the feisty Djokovic 7-6, 6-3, 3-6, 7-6.
NBC gets its wish as by having the two most popular players in men's tennis go head-to-head.
The ratings should be strong, and the match will probably be one for the ages.
DONNIE WALSH OUT! ISIAH IN?
June 3, 2011 (New York) The Knicks and Donnie Walsh could not come to terms so Walsh is
out as Knicks president and GM. According to some reports, the Knicks offer was 40% less than what Walsh was making
in his current contract. Does this pave the way for Isiah Thomas's return?
Isiah Thomas's tenure as coach, GM, and team president was disasterous. Arguably,
the NBA's premier franchise became a laughing stock for its on- and off-the-court performance.
This evening on the Stephen A. Smith radio broadcast, Stephen A. asked Isiah point blank
if he was interested in the position vacated by Dolan. Isiah said, "I don't
want to be president of the Knicks." Stephen A. Smith pushed further and asked Isiah if James Dolan requested that he
become president would he consider it. Once again, Isiah said, "No."
Don't believe the hype. "I-siah shall return!"
SHAQ RETIREMENT CREATES MEDIA BUZZ
June 2, 2011 (New York) Shaquille O'Neal announces his retirement and all the world is
a "flutter"--or should I say "twitter"? In typical Shaq style, O'Neal announced his retirement in atypical fashion.
No press conference, just twitter.
His retirement became the leading sports and entertainment story of the day. Sports
pundits have been trying to sum up his legacy, impact on the game, marketing potential, career options, etc., and will do
so for some time to come.
Shaq was not only a dominant figure on the court; he was/is a dominant figure off the court.
Don't rule out Shaq twittering, "I shall return."
THE "GRANDY" MAN CAN: THE NEW KING OF NEW YORK, CURTIS GRANDERSON
June 2, 2011 (New York) Last year, Curtis Granderson's lack of productivity at the plate
led many to believe that the Yankees bought another (free agent) bust. But that was last year.
The most consistent player on the first-place Yankees is none other than centerfielder Curtis Granderson.
As of this writing, Granderson is hitting .279, has 41 rbi, and 17 homeruns. Last year he batted .247, hit 24 homeruns,
and drove in 67 runs. At the current rate, he will eclipse his homerun and rbi totals from last year before the All-Star
game.
He's good for New York. Good for the game. Good for the youth. He can play.
He can speak. He can model. Yes, The Grandy-Man can. He's the new "King" of New York (but Jeter's the Emperor).
HALLELUJAH HOCKEY: HIGHEST OPENING GAME RATINGS IN 12 YEARS
June 2, 2011 (New York) NBC and the NHL can breathe a sigh of relief as the first
game for Lord Stanley's cup captured its highest rating in 12 years.
Game One of the Bruins-Canucks series had a rating of 3.2 which was higher than every Stanley Cup
opener since 1999.
If Saturday's Game Two does well, expect the results to energize NBC/Versus next week when the
network enters into a bidding war for the 2014 and 2016 Olympics media rights. The negotiations begin in earnest next
week in Switzerland.
But for now, NBC can "Party like it's 1999".
HEAT-MAVS GAME 2 TONIGHT
June 2, 2011 (New York) Tuesdays, May 31, had great ratings. Game twos generally
drop off, but don't expect for there to be much drop off if any in the ratings for the second Heats-Mavericks game which will
be televised live at 9 p.m. est. on ABC.
Dirk's "fragile finger" has been the subject of much discussion so there will be plenty
of intrigue regarding his performance. The Heat have gotten "hot" at the right time and are playing their best ball
of the season.
If the Heat win big tonight, game three which is scheduled for Sunday, June 5th, might
be a ratings casualty even though that would be the Mavs first home game.
If the Heat do win the series, they will be the odds on favorite to repeat. There
is no "American Idol" to contend with so it should be a good night ratings wise.
LI DEFEATS SHARAPOVA
June 2, 2011 (New York) They may have the same representation, but on the court, they were
separate entities. Li Na beat Maria Sharapova in straight sets, 6-4, 7-5.
Earlier this year at the Australian Open, Li became the first Chinese player to reach the finals
of a Grand Slam. She will be playing semi-finalist winner, Francesca Schiavone, who won the tournament last year.
With no Williams sister, Sharapova, or Clijsters, the NBC televised match will probably have less
than stellar ratings. However, on the men's side, if Nadal gets through, he will face either Federer or Djokovic and
that should command high ratings.
SHAQ RETIRES, LET THE BIDDING BEGIN
June 1, 2011 (New York) He was one of the first superstar athletes to embrace Twitter,
and he is the first superstar athlete to announce his retirement--on Twitter. According to ESPNBoston.com's Jackie MacMullan,
Shaq is retiring due to his injured achilles.
Shaquille O'neal, who ended his illustrious career hobbling, has decided to hang up his
22's (shoe size). Sir Shaqness is one of the great sports personalities, and his fan-friendly personna, quick wit, and
high Q-rating will create a bidding war for his talents.
Will he do a reality show? His ex-wife, Shaunie, has one of the most watched reality
shows, "Basketball Wives" that just launched its third season this week.
Maybe he wants to be a basketball analyst. ESPN/ABC needs him because the pre- and
post-game shows need added "punch." TNT's "Inside the NBA" is already the premier pre- and post-game show, but the addition
of Shaq would boost their ratings considerably.
Shaq has appeared in movies and on television, so that may appeal to him. One thing
is clear, whoever wants his services will have to pay a hefty price.
Ladies and Gentlemen, start your "Bidding."
RIDING THE "HEAT" WAVE: RATINGS UP 3% FOR OPENING GAME
June 1, 2011 (New York) The first game of the Heat-Mavericks series had the highest rating
since the opening for the 2004 NBA Finals matchup between the Lakers and Pistons.
The game drew a 10.7 rating which is up by 3% from last year's opening game between the
Lakers and the Celtics. If the Heat win in convincing fashion on Thursday (June 2), the ratings will trend downwards;
however, if the Mavericks win their first two home games to tie the series, the ratings for game 5, 6, and possibly 7 may
be the highest ever.
Great ratings should be the best antidote for a stalled collective bargaining agreement.
Let's hope for a competitive series, high ratings, and resolution of the cba.
UNDER ARMOUR GOES "FASHIONISTA?"
June 1, 2011 (New York) Initially thought of as a renegade sports apparel and footwear
company, Under Armour has made great strides since its beginning more than 15 years ago. In an attempt to expand its
reach, Under Armour is looking to expand product lines and become more fashion oriented.
Under Armour has recruited fashion experts to lend more style to its brand--and increase
its appeal to women. According to Baltimore Sun reporter, Andrea Walker, "In an
effort to keep the talent coming, Under Armour recently staged a competition among students of the School of Fashion at Parsons
the New School of Design in New York. Teams were directed to design a new product for the company."
Cam Newton, the Heisman Trophy winner who led Auburn to the national championship, signed
with Under Armour earlier this year. There is no doubting it would be excellent strategy to take advantage of
Newton's good looks and have apparel for him to "model" that would be considered "hip" and "cool."
There are risks involved though. Under Armour has positioned itself as a performance
apparel company that caters to hardcore athletes. If the company moves to a stronger fashion orientation, will the core
consumer feel orientated. Business is about risks, and this is clearly a risk worth taking. As long as the ad
campaigns don't send mix messages, billion-dollar company will be successful.
Bruce Lee once said, "It's the art of fighting, without fighting. For Under Armour,
"it's a matter of being fashionista, without being fashionista."
THE "HEAT" IS ON (GAME 1 TONIGHT)
May 31, 2011 (New York) After nearly a week of no basketball, the NBA Finals begins this
evening. David Stern couldn't be more pleased because the undisputed most popular (or notorious) team is in the playoffs
and that means ratings boom.
The Miami Heat take on the Dallas Mavericks with both franchises and many of the players
having a lot on the line. One of the premier owners in all of sports is Mark Cuban. The billionaire has been envisioning
the Larry O'brien trophy in his "trophy case" since he purchased the team. For Pat Riley, it will mean his "coup" paid
off sooner rather than later.
Dirk Nowitzki has waited five long years. He's been labeled as soft, a choker, a
can't-win-the-big-one player. This is the time to put those sentiments to rest. Lebron needs to get on his
championship run--yesterday. This is Jason Kidd's third go round. Wade knows how sweet victory tastes and wants
to collect trophies. Jason Terry put a tattoo of the Larry O'brien Trophy on his arm at the beginning of the season.
Bosh wants to shed the "Two and a half men" moniker.
The two-three-two game format almost guarantees at least six games. Summer's coming,
and the Heat is on.
TERRELLE HAS "PRYOR" ISSUES
May 31, 2011 (New York) He has the last name of one of the greatest comedians this
country has ever produced, but there is nothing funny about his predicament. Ohio State quarterback, Terrelle Pryor,
is being investigated by the NCAA.
After the shocking resignation of Coach Tressel, the "aftershocks" will continue and there
will be many casualities. It seems that the next casualty will be Pryor. Pryor has driven several "pre-owned"
(fancy term for "used") cars and questions abound regarding how he was able to gain access to those vehicles.
Pryor has already been suspended for the first five games of the upcoming season.
He is public enemy number one in Ohio and has probably played his last game for OSU.
Pryor's "prior" issues may end his collegiate career prematurely. His last name may
be Pryor, but this is no laughing matter.
JUDAH-KHAN IN LAS VEGAS
May 31, 2011 (New York) With a new religion and new trainer, Zab Judah has been reborn.
His attempt to recapture the glory he once had begins in earnest on July 23, in Las Vegas. (Sorry Atlantic City.)
Super Judah will fight Amir "King" Khan in a junior welterweight unification bout.
Khan was originally set to fight Timothy Bradley who beat Devon Alexander in their unification
bout. Khan offered Bradley a 50-50 split--even for the Great Britain pay-per-view sales, and Bradley still rejected
the fight where he was guaranteed his largest purse ($1.4 million).
Khan, looking for a viable substitute, sought Zab Judah who happily obliged. The purse is
being split 55-45 in favor of Khan, but if Judah wins, he'll more than likely be Pacquiao's next opponent. It should
be one of the biggest fights this year.
MARK JACKSON TO COACH WARRIORS?
May 31, 2011 (New York) Retired standout point guard and current ESPN analyst, Mark Jackson,
is being considered for the Golden State Warrior's coaching position.
Jackson has wanted to coach for some time, but teams have passed on his services in the
past. It has long been known that Jackson's preference is the New York Knicks, but he probably needs to have some head
coaching experience before the Knicks take a chance on him.
Golden State could use someone like Jackson at the helm. He seems stern, but
he probably could relate to the players which is so important in today's NBA. If Jackson can turn the Warriors around,
the next Jackson that people will want to coach the Knicks won't be Phil--it'll be Mark.
BAYLESS APOLOGIZES TO BROUSSARD
May 31, 2011 (New York) Skip Bayless exhibited class and apologized to debate partner and
ESPN colleague, Chris Broussard. Bayless admitted that he went too far when he said that Broussard, "sold his journalistic
soul."
Bayless's apology was heartfelt. "In the heat of the debate, I questioned Chris's
interity, and I deeply regret that. And I went too far," said Bayless. As he became more somber, Bayless expressed,
"I have the utmost regard for Chris Brousard as a reporter." Then he poignantly added, "If nothing else, I hope this
deepens our friendship."
Well done, Skip. Let the debate continue.
THRASHERS MOVE TO WINNIPEG
May 31, 2011 (New York) Atlanta has the dubious distinction of losing two NHL franchises.
In 1980, the Flames moved to Calgary, and three decades later, the Thrashers are moving to Winnipeg.
The $170 million deal reflects a movement to move franchises in cities that will support
them. The Thrashers went to playoffs once in 11 years, and that certainly contributed to the lack of interest in the
team.
Winnipeg's last team, the Winnipeg Jets, left for Phoenix in 1996. Not only did the
locale change, but so did the name, and they are now known as the Phoenix Coyotes. It seems likely the Winnipeg team
will have a new name as well.
Will more "stateside" teams move to Canada? Only time will tell.
TRESSEL'S TIMING TERRIBLE
May 30, 2011 (New York) Kyle Greene told me many months ago that Tressel should and would
go. I have to respect his take on things since he's been a Buckeye football guy for over four decades. I called
him first thing this morning to break the news.
He asked, rhetorically, "Why make this announcement on Memorial Day?" Maybe the powers
that be in Columbus felt nobody would pay attention with today being a national holiday. Well, they were wrong.
Completely wrong.
On a "slow" sports news day, the announcement of Tressel became a lightening rod of a story.
Clearly it was the talk of the town or should I say the state (Ohio) or should I say the nation.
Look for this story to have legs for weeks to come based on the following: who will replace
Tressel; will OSU receive harsher penalties? where will Tressel go? will committed players jump ship? what is the athletic
director's fate? what other players will come forward? will this put more heat on other programs like Auburn and Oregon? how
successful will the Buckeyes be this season? etc.
Terrible Timing, Tressel. Terrible.
JETER CLOSING IN, LET THE MARKETING BEGIN
May 30, 2011 (New York) Derek Jeter is less than 20 hits away from being the first "home-grown"
Yankee to reach 3,000 hits. The Yankees are in the midst of a nine-game road trip but will return to the Stadium on
June 7th.
It is a certainty that barring injury, he'll reach and eclipse 3,000 hits during the nine-game
homestand where the Yanks will face the Red Sox, Cleveland, and the Rangers.
The marketing of Jeter-mania should begin to rev up when he returns home. The
secondary ticket market can expect a huge demand for tickets during the homestand. Look for Jeter t-shirts, caps, pictures,
etc., to be plentiful in the next few weeks.
THE WACKY RACES: STARRING HILDEBRAND & EARNHARDT JR.
May 30, 2011 (New York) On Sept. 14, 1968, the "Wacky Races" cartoon debuted. The
cartoon lasted until January 4, 1969 and featured 17 episodes. The cult classic produced a spin-off, "The Perils of
Penelope Pitstop" another classic that also lasted one season.
Yesterday, the "Wacky Races" went from the land of make believe to reality. With the race all but over,
rookie Indy 500 driver J.R. Hildebrand ended up smacking the wall and giving Dan Wheldon his second Indy 500 victory.
Hildebrand's gaffe will be the standard example when the subject of seismic collapses in sports is discussed.
Kudos to Hildebrand for consenting to be interviewed and not ducking. He's young and talented, and will be in contention
again.
Even wackier was the "out-of-gas" finish suffered by Dale Earnhardt Jr. at Charlotte who was leading going
into the final lap. The loss kept his dubious streak (105 races and no wins) alive.
What a Wacky Weekend for Racers.
MOUTH-TO-MOUTH COMBAT : BAYLESS VS. BROUSSARD
May 30, 2011 (New York) Off the Friday-Morning-Fight that took place on ESPN's First
Take between Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith, this morning's First Take Debate between Bayless and Chris Broussard was especially
contentious during one of the sessions.
Bayless seemed to get personal with Broussard and questioned his journalistic integrity.
During a particularly heated exchange, Bayless told Broussard, "You're way too close to have any objectivity. You sold
your journalistic soul to get close to Lebron."
Hopefully Bayless and Broussard can mend fences. If their relationship is strong,
and I think it is, they will move on. But there is a prevelant view amongst some journalists that Broussard's ascension
was aided by his relationship to Lebron James. Broussard is a solid journalist who is knowledgeable and passionate,
and his journalistic integrity is beyond reproach.
Bayless, who demonstrates very little in the way of objectivity (for the purposes of the
show), took a cheap shot at Broussard. It made for great theater, but it could have long-range ramifications that adversely
impact the show. The next time they are paired, we'll see if the "tone" of the discussion has changed. Hopefully,
it will return to what it was before the personal shot.
TURN THE "AC" ON: SITE FOR JUDAH-KHAN SHOULD BE ATLANTIC CITY
May 30, 2011 (New York) In 2002, hip-hop artist Nelly released one of his biggest hits,
"It's Getting Hot in Herre" which dominated the charts that summer. Zab Judah and Amir Khan are close to signing what
will be one of the biggest fights of the year. Money agreed upon--good. But the site is undecided.
A "hot" fight like that could use a little A.C.--that's Atlantic City if you please.
Las Vegas is the venue of choice for most big fights; however, Atlantic City has had its share of big fights. Vegas
has a huge edge when it comes to getting fights that are scheduled during the winter months. However, this fight is
scheduled for this summer so cold weather is not a factor.
Zab Judah has fought his last three fights in the Garden State where he has won in impressive
fashion. The Brooklyn-born Judah would probably prefer to fight in his native city, New York, but the only two viable
options are not options at all. Madison Square Garden is being renovated. Case closed. Even the Liberty
can't play their games there. Yankee Stadium is the other option, but it's way too late. It appeared
that Yankee Stadium would be a home for boxing matches after a 34-year hiatus. Last June, Top Rank staged the Miguel Cotto-Yuri
Foreman bout at the New Yankee Stadium The live gate did not meet the expectations so promoters may be less than
enthusiastic to stage another fight at that venue.
Hopefully, Atlantic City will be the landing spot for Khan-Judah which would be the "hottest"
fight of the summer. Please promoters, turn on the AC.
BARCELONA BEATS MANCHESTER AND FOX BEATS COMPETION
May 29, 2011 (New York) Barcelona beat Manchester United yesterday by a score of 3-1 in
the Champions League final. It was the second time in three years that Barcelona won the prestigious event. Fox
carried the event and no doubt beat every show in the timeslot. Today, the big sporting event is the Indy 500 which
is celebrating its 100 year anniversary. Which event will garner the higher rating? That is probably the
more interesting "race."
HILDEBRAND HITS WALL AND WHELDON WINS INDY
May 29, 2011 (New York) J.R. Hildebrand, with Indy victory seeminly in hand, literally
hit the wall and finished second. Maybe his concentration was on the fuel gauge or maybe it was on a hard-charging Dan
Wheldon. Whatever it was, it cost him a win, and according to CNBC sports business correspondent Darren Rovell,
cost his team $1.5 million. "Learning" life off the wall.
"RAMPAGE" JACKSON WINS BOUT BUT HURTS UFC MOMENTUM
May 29, 2011 (New York) Quinton "Rampage" Jackson won a unanimous decision over Matt Hamill
at UFC 130. The bout was well promoted by Dana White; however, even though Jackson dominated the fight, the
action could be labeled as sluggish at times. UFC prides itself on having spectacular fights. The UFC 129 card
did not disappoint, and it probably provided tremendous momentum for the UFC 130. Rampage Jackson is a one of the more
well-known UFC fighters so expectations were high. Jackson later claimed that he fractured his hand before the
fight. The concern for White is how this underwhelming fight will affect UFC 131.
MCCOURT MEETS DODGER PAYROLL
May 29, 2011 (New York) Dodgers owner Frank McCourt was able to get funds to meet the May
31st payroll. Will this be a recurring "situation" every month? If so, Bud Selig, who is "circling" will swoop
down and take control of the team. The Mets were able to call off the dogs by getting a $200 million infusion from multi-millionaire
David Einhorn. If McCourt can strike a deal for the Dodger broadcast rights, he will be able to make the payroll for
the rest of the year.
NEW SYNERGY: MIKE TYSON APP AND FILM "THE HANGOVER"
May 29, 2011 (New York) Mike Tyson's new app for iPad, iPod touch, and iPhones, "Main
Event" has amassed over one million downloads in a week. Part of the momentum is due to the app and the sequel to the
movie "The Hangover" were released last week. Mike Tyson had a cameo in the first movie and has an expanded role in
the sequel. One of the prominent characters from "The Hangover" (Chow) is also a character in the Tyson app, Main
Event. Great synergy and excellent timing.
KENSETH WINNING NATIONWIDE HELPS LEBRON
May 29, 2011 (New York) Business makes strange bedfellows. Case in point, Matt
Kenseth won the Nationwide 300 edging out his teammate Carl Edwards in Charlotte yesterday. Matt Kenseth, who is affiliated
with Roush Fenway Racing, has a "distant" cousin of sorts--hoops star Lebron James. Lebron James inked a deal last month
with Fenway Sports Management that is a subsidiary of the Fenway Sports Group. Roush Fenway Racing is
part of the Fenway Sports Group's portfolio. When Fenway Sports Group's properties win, so does Lebron--indirectly.
"GO DADDY" ADS PROMISE TO BE RACY TOMORROW
May 28, 2011 (New York) Go Daddy, the title sponsor of the tomorrow's Indy 500, will feature its most
provocative ads. Expect Danica Patrick to be featured prominently and scantily. This may be her last Indy race.
BARCELONA VS. MANCHESTER UNITED
May 28, 2011 (New York) Barcelona vs. Manchester United is soccer's version of the "irresitable force"
meeting the "immovable object." The match will be televised on Fox. Decent ratings expected on a slow sports
day.
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